Steve Sheetz, Longtime CEO of Popular Convenience Chain, Dies at 77

Stephen “Steve” G. Sheetz, the former president and chief executive of the family-owned Sheetz convenience store chain, has died at age 77.

An Altoona, Pennsylvania native, Sheetz spent more than five decades helping build and guide the company his family founded. He died on Saturday, Jan. 3, at his home, surrounded by family, according to a statement from Sheetz Inc. The cause of death was not disclosed.

“Steve’s impact on Sheetz is immense,” the company said in a statement shared on social media. “He played an instrumental role in guiding members of the Sheetz family into the business, helping them apply their skills and talents to support the company’s continued success.”

Sheetz joined the family business after graduating from Penn State University in 1969. Over the years, he held a wide range of leadership roles before ultimately serving as president and CEO. During his tenure, the company evolved from a regional operation into a multi-state enterprise, expanding across Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Ohio while modernizing its stores and services.

Industry observers and company leaders credited Sheetz with transforming the brand beyond the traditional convenience store model. Under his leadership, the company’s Made-to-Order food program became a defining feature, alongside an emphasis on high-quality fuel offerings and early adoption of technology such as mobile apps and customer loyalty programs.

“Steve’s leadership was marked by an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep care for the people who make this company what it is,” current Sheetz President and CEO Travis Sheetz said, per WGAL8. “His commitment to our associates, customers, and communities will continue to guide us.”

Joe Sheetz, chairman of the Sheetz Board of Directors, also reflected on his influence. “Steve’s guidance shaped nearly every aspect of our family business,” he told WGAL8. “He was a mentor for every leader who has followed him, and his vision, wisdom, and entrepreneurial spirit will be missed deeply by everyone at Sheetz.”

Outside of business, Steve Sheetz was widely recognized for his dedication to community service. He served on numerous local boards and supported initiatives focused on education, health care, and veterans’ services, guided by his belief that corporate success should positively impact the communities it serves.

He is survived by his wife, two daughters—Megan Sheetz and Nicole Sheetz Frith—and seven grandchildren.

Sheetz remains a privately held company headquartered in Altoona, Pennsylvania, operating more than 800 stores and employing approximately 27,000 people.